Facial fractures: Hippocratic management

Hippocrates, the famous Greek physician of the fifth century B.C., is considered to be the "Father of Medicine." Little, however, is known about his principles for the management of facial trauma. In this article, the Manuscripts in Ancient Greek, which deal with the management of mandibular fractures and dislocations, and with nasal and midfacial fractures have been translated and discussed. Hippocrates' methods for reducing mandibular dislocations and treating fractures of the mandible by wiring the teeth and immobilizing the jaw are described. His technique of closed reduction and immobilization of deviated nasal fractures with internal packing and rigid dorsal splints remains timeless. Hippocrates has taught us how to achieve medical wisdom through accurate clinical observation and practical creative ideas. The discovery of x-rays and antisepsis only furthered his established sound principles for the management of facial trauma.